Crime

Definition
Crime is an issue which as being a growing concern over the world and it has become a
fundamental component of human society. In the Caribbean country of Jamaica, we see the
issue of crime becoming the most pressing problem facing the country. The high occurrence of
homicides and shootings, rape and carnal abuse, significantly threatens the Jamaican society and
communities. With this said, the terminology crime can be defined as an action or omission
which constitutes an offence and is punishable by law (Oxford Dictionary, 2014). In essence,
the term crime can be viewed as a deviant behaviour which infringe on existing norms and
cultural standards. The issue of crime is caused by various factors, these factors includes the lack
of proper education, lack of role models, lack of financial resources, mass media influences,
individuals social environment and lack of proper family structures(Richard, 2005). With this
said lets explore the factors of lack of education, mass media influences and lack of proper
family structures.
Causes
Lack of education can lead to individuals involvement with crimes. The lack of
education and the issue of unemployment are usually interconnected. Unemployed individual
who are in need may steal or rob for the money and life necessities and thus causing the crime.
Mass media places many images within the consciousness of an individual. Mass media is
medium through which information and entertainment is transmitted in fast pace to enormous
individuals. This medium consists of aspect as such television, radio, books and the internet.
Through these forums, mass media can manipulate peoples attitude and opinions, therefore
imagery of crime in the mass media can lead to the development of crime.
In the case of lack of proper family structures, individuals who were raised in a
dysfunctional family, or from a deprived background, in some cases turn to crime. The
unsympathetic and cruel discipline of parents, lack of parental control, supervision and
monitoring can also contribute to an individual turning to crime.
Ways to Prevent Crime
Provide anger management, stress relief, and conflict resolution training for community
members.
Develop an anti- crime program of children, including speech, dance, painting, drawing,
singing, instrumental music, acting, play-writing and other creative arts. Get youth to
help suggest prizes.
Help strengthen links between school services and the net work of community services
that can help students and families facing problems.









References
Crime . (2014). In Oxford Dictionary Online. Retrieved from
http://www.oxforddictionaries.com/definition/english/crime
Barlow, David H. & Durand, V. Mark. (2006). Essentials of abnormal
psychology. California: Thomas Wadsworth.
Bartol, Anne M. and Bartol, Curt A. (2005). Criminal behavior: A psychosocial
approach. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey: Pearson Prentice Hall.
Bersoff, Donald M., Ogloff, James R. P., & Tomkins, Alan J. (1996). Education and training in
psychology and law/criminal justice: Historical foundations, present structures, and future
developments. Criminal Justice and Behavior, 23, 200-235.
Burke, Roger Hopkins. (2001). An introduction to criminological theory. Criminal Justice
Review, 377-381.